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Economic Challenges Facing Businesses in the Ashanti Region

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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The Ashanti Region, once a thriving hub for business activities, is now facing significant economic challenges that are impacting various sectors including agriculture, industry, and commerce.

The Suame artisanal hub, the Kejetia and Central Markets, and the Kente Industry, which were once vibrant centers of economic activity, are now struggling for survival.

The Suame Magazine, which is home to an estimated 200,000 artisans and 12,000 shop-owning entrepreneurs, has seen a decline in activity and an increase in unemployment due to economic downturn.

Several factors have contributed to the struggles of businesses in the region, including the introduction of new taxes, high import duties, high lending rates, and the recent power challenges.

The government’s implementation of taxes such as the E-Levy, Emissions Levy, Communication Service Tax (CST), 3% VAT Flat Rate, and incremental VAT increases has added financial strain to consumers and businesses, impacting operational costs and monthly budgets.

In addition to tax burdens, approximately 20 different duties at the various ports and levies imposed by local assemblies are further hindering businesses in the region.

The combined impact of these economic factors has led to the collapse of numerous businesses and has left many others struggling to survive.

The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, Stephen Acheampong, and the Secretary of the Combined Kejetia Traders Association, Ruben Ameh, have expressed concerns about the challenges faced by businesses in the Ashanti Region.

They have highlighted that many businesses in the region are struggling, and a significant number of them have already collapsed due to the various factors.

Traders at the Kejetia, Central, and Asafo markets have been particularly affected, with about 800 people losing their businesses after being relocated to the Racecourse Market and others facing challenges due to poor infrastructure and market conditions.

The abandonment of the various market projects including the Kejetia market redevelopment project, the Krofrom market, among others are affecting businesses and also impeding the KMA’s intention to decongest the CBD.

Cold store operators at the Asafo market are also concerned about the potential collapse of their businesses due to power challenges and high transportation costs.

About 20 to 30 percent of operators have folded up their businesses owing to continuous losses.

Farmers in various parts of the region, such as Nobewam, Biemso, and Ejura, are grappling with the impact of high input costs, transportation challenges, and poor road networks, which have inflated the prices of agricultural inputs and affected cultivation.

While the Ghanaian economy is showing signs of stabilization after implementing an IMF-supported economic program, the impact of these measures appears to have had little effect on the local economy.

The business community in the Ashanti Region is in need of a conducive environment that supports expansion and growth.

The struggles faced by businesses in the region are a cause for concern, and it is imperative for stakeholders to address the economic challenges and create an environment that fosters sustainable business growth and development.

Jobs are not in Ghana- Nurses on why they leave Ghana

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Nurses protesting against the government

Nurses in the Ashanti Region of Ghana are expressing their frustration with the limited job opportunities in the country, leading many to seek better prospects abroad.

Despite completing their education, these highly qualified and experienced nurses are not being deployed for work by the government.

As a result, approximately 60% of them are considering working in other countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Australia, Canada, Barbados, and the United Arab Emirates.

This trend is alarming as it could further strain the nurse-patient ratio in Ghana and potentially impact the quality of nursing care for the local population.

Angela Afua Mensah, a nurse, highlighted the lack of job opportunities in the country, stating that many nurses have not been posted since 2016, and those who have been posted often rely on connections to secure their positions.

Nurses protesting against the government

The nurses are also dissatisfied with the level of compensation, citing inadequate salaries as a major concern.

She noted “There are no job opportunities in the country, and from 2016 to 2019, some nurses have not been posted. Only 25% have been posted, and even then, it’s all based on connections.”

“If you know someone, then you can get your name in the system. The government is not paying us enough. The salary is not sufficient,” she added.

While the nurses express a desire to serve their fellow Ghanaians, they feel that the current system governing nurses in the country is unsustainable.

They are calling on the government to ensure that every nurse is posted to serve the people, even if it means being placed in locations that may not be their preferred places to practice.

Nurses protesting against the government

They emphasize the importance of providing essential nursing services, particularly at a time when in-person care and connections are crucial.

Drivers Negligence Blamed for Damaged Traffic Lights at Atonsu

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Damaged Traffic Light at Atonsu

Traders at Atonsu in the Asokwa Municipality have attributed the non-functioning of the traffic lights within the area to drivers’ negligence.

Traffic lights play a crucial role in regulating traffic flow and ensuring road safety.

Studies have shown that the proper functioning of traffic lights can significantly impact drivers’ decision-making processes and reduce the number of conflicting flows at intersections.

However, malfunctioning traffic lights on major streets in Kumasi have led to chaotic scenes during peak hours, posing risks to motorists and pedestrians.

Orange FM’s Community Lens will focus on the traffic lights installed on the Atonso Agogo stretch within the Asokwa Municipality.

Despite being installed less than a year ago to prevent congestion and accidents, the traffic lights have been repeatedly damaged by vehicles running into them.

Traders selling on pavements have called for drivers to be held responsible for damaging state property to deter others from doing the same.

Agya Nsiah, a taxi driver at Atonsu, highlighted the risks posed by the damaged traffic lights to pedestrians and motorists, emphasizing that the malfunctioning lights have led to accidents and pose a significant danger to road users.

Approximately 30% of the traders at Atonsu conduct business along the road, exposing themselves to significant risk.

While they acknowledge the dangers, they have no choice but to sacrifice their safety to earn a living.

The traders have urged authorities to intervene and address the damaged traffic lights to prevent potentially serious problems.

ADANSUOGYA RESIDENTS CALL ON THE GOVERNMENT TO FIX DUSTY ROADS

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Dusty Roads in Adansuogya

Residents of Adansuogya in the Effiduasi – Asokore District of the Ashanti Region are demanding urgent action from the government to address the deplorable state of the road network in their area.

The untarred roads are plagued with deep trenches, making them impassable and muddy, particularly during rainy periods.

The residents have voiced their frustration, citing the detrimental impact on their health and businesses.

Morris Owusu Prince, also known as DJ, the unit committee chairman of the electoral area, highlighted the lack of support from authorities in addressing the community’s concerns.

He emphasized that despite efforts to raise the issue through local media, little progress has been made in improving the road conditions.

He noted “For the past two weeks, I’ve heard residents discussing this same issue on a local radio station, expressing their frustration about the current state of the road. Despite their complaints, the only action taken was watering the roads, which did little to reduce the dust generated. As the unit committee chairman for this electoral area, we feel powerless in addressing this predicament due to the lack of support from people in authority to help us communicate our grievances to the appropriate channels.”

Boateng Emmanuel, another resident, echoed the sentiment, stressing the toll the dusty roads are taking on the community.

The residents are calling on the government and the responsible contractor to take immediate action to fix the roads.

They emphasized the critical role of a well-maintained road network in facilitating economic development and the transportation of goods from rural to urban areas.

BEFAST: A Vital Response Program for Managing Stroke

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Medical illustration of a brain with stroke symptoms

Understanding the risk factors associated with stroke is paramount. Hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, and obesity significantly elevate the likelihood of experiencing a stroke. Moreover, age and family history also play pivotal roles in predisposing individuals to this debilitating condition.

To combat the scourge of strokes, initiatives like the BEFAST program have emerged as beacons of hope. BEFAST, an acronym for Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, and Time, serves as a mnemonic for recognizing stroke symptoms swiftly. By promptly identifying these signs, individuals can seek urgent medical attention, potentially mitigating the severity of the stroke and its long-term consequences.

Managing stroke involves a multifaceted approach. Firstly, lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and smoking cessation are crucial in reducing the risk of stroke occurrence. Additionally, adherence to prescribed medications for conditions like hypertension and diabetes aids in maintaining optimal health and preventing strokes.

Furthermore, raising awareness about stroke symptoms and the importance of immediate action is imperative. Educational campaigns within communities, healthcare facilities, and workplaces can empower individuals to recognize and respond promptly to stroke signs, thereby saving lives and minimizing disability.

In essence, stroke is not just a medical emergency; it is a societal challenge that demands collective action. Through initiatives like the BEFAST program and concerted efforts to address risk factors, we can effectively manage strokes and improve outcomes for those affected. Remember, in the face of stroke, time is of the essence, and swift action can make all the difference between life and death.

Women Lately: Navigating Relationships in the Age of Social Media

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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The Round Table

In today’s digital era, the impact of social media on relationships is undeniable. On the Women Lately show, Miss Adwoa Afranewaa recently sparked a conversation about the controversial notion of sharing social media passwords with partners. This practice, while some may see it as a gesture of trust and transparency, raises questions about privacy and boundaries within relationships.

On the other hand, Miss Davina Abeyie shed light on a more positive aspect of social media influence – the exploration of love languages. Through her encouraging reviews, she emphasized the importance of understanding and communicating love in ways that resonate with one’s partner.

In a world where likes, comments, and shares hold significant weight, couples must navigate the digital landscape with caution. While social media can enhance communication and connection, it can also introduce challenges such as jealousy, insecurity, and comparison. Hunt of jealousy was indicated when Miss Abeyie stated ” I cannot date a guy that works on social media “. The feeling of having to share your man with his social media family.

Sharing social media passwords may seem like a gesture of trust, but it’s essential to consider the implications on privacy and individual autonomy. Open communication and mutual respect are key to establishing healthy boundaries that accommodate both partners’ needs and preferences.

Miss Adwoa Afranewaa during the discussion, pointed out that partners should desist from sharing their emotions on their status. ” Most partners are fond of communicating their emotions to their partners via reels on Instagram and videos on their status. Although it yields results sometimes, it’s not appropriate”. This action according to Miss Adwoa Afranewaa is immature.

Learning about love languages, as advocated by Miss Davina Abeyie, offers couples a valuable tool for deepening intimacy and understanding. By recognizing and speaking each other’s love languages, partners can foster a deeper connection and strengthen their bond.

Ultimately, the influence of social media on relationships is multifaceted. It can either amplify existing dynamics or introduce new challenges. Couples must approach social media use with mindfulness, prioritize honest communication, and continuously nurture their connection offline.

By striking a balance between digital engagement and real-world interactions. Couples can navigate the complexities of modern relationships with resilience and grace. Francisca Taylor before the end of the show gave couples some advice, ” Stop censoring your partner’s post for peace of mind”. This brings it down to the saying do unto others what you want others to do unto you.

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